Dental schools develop exceptional clinicians. What they rarely teach is how to buy, lead, and manage a thriving private practice — and that gap has left too many dentists frustrated, financially unprepared, and burned out before they ever reach their potential.

The Dental Associate Edge exists to change that.

Hosted by performance psychologist Dr. Dave Striegel and dental practice management consultant Sandy Baird, MBA, this podcast equips dental students, residents, and associates with the mindset, knowledge, and practical tools needed to transition confidently into ownership and leadership — on their own terms.

Whether you're weighing your first associateship contract, exploring buy-in options, or simply wondering if ownership is right for you, this is the show that gives you the unfiltered truth and the roadmap to get there.

• Assess whether practice ownership aligns with your personality, goals, values, and desired lifestyle

• Identify what to focus on during your associateship to build a strong foundation for future ownership

• Develop the mindset, tools, and habits required for success as a dentist, leader, and practice owner

• Understand the financial realities of ownership, including debt, compensation, contracts, and readiness

• Recognize the impact of a healthy work culture, strong operating systems, effective leadership, and team development on practice success

• Evaluate the various pathways to ownership, including buy-ins, buy-outs, startups, and DSO models